Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that combines the rich decadence of brownies, the creamy smoothness of cheesecake, and the sweet-tart burst of cherries in one irresistible treat! These Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Cheesecake Bars are not just a dessert - they're a culinary masterpiece that will have your taste buds dancing and your guests begging for the recipe. Imagine sinking your teeth into a fudgy brownie base, topped with a silky cheesecake layer studded with juicy cherries and sprinkled with chocolate chips - it's a dessert lover's ultimate fantasy come to life!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 large egg
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions. Combine brownie mix, vegetable oil, water, and egg. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the brownie base is partially set but not fully cooked.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Gently fold the chopped cherries into the cheesecake mixture, reserving a few for topping.
- Carefully spread the cheesecake mixture over the partially baked brownie base, ensuring an even layer.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top of the cheesecake layer, along with the reserved cherry pieces.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to set completely before cutting into 16 equal squares.
- For clean cuts, use a sharp knife wiped with a warm, damp cloth between each slice.
- Serve chilled and store any remaining bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer.
- Don't Overbake: The key to a perfect texture is to remove the bars when the cheesecake is still slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to set as it cools.
- Chill Thoroughly: Patience is crucial! Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to achieve the perfect slicing consistency.
- Clean Cutting Technique: Use a sharp knife wiped with a warm, damp cloth between each cut for clean, beautiful slices.
- Cherry Tip: If using fresh cherries, make sure to pit them thoroughly to avoid any unexpected hard bits in your dessert.
- Storage Hack: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert for parties or potlucks.
- Customize: Feel free to experiment with different chocolate chip varieties or add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for extra indulgence!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 40mg
